Grandparents are a blessing!
Grandparent relationships seem to come in all shapes, sizes and distances.
Our boys are blessed to have two sets of wonderful grandparents as well as some terrific great-grandparents. We’ve lived anywhere from 1,500 miles away, to sharing the same house and everything in between.
Long distance grandparenting is especially difficult when kids are young and don’t know how to relate well. Here are some ideas to keep your kids’ relationship growing with their grandparents.
(Note: I wish I was more consistent with these actually doing these ideas! I’ve certainly been know to slack off sometimes. Both my mom and my mother-in-law read these posts so I better be transparent or they’ll call me out! 😉 )
Send Pictures
Grandparents LOVE pictures! When they live far away, it can be so hard knowing those children are grow big and tall without them. Keep them supplied with a large dose of cuteness.
Send Artwork
My kids are constantly drawing, painting or creating something. Don’t get me wrong, they’re beautiful creations, but sometimes I need them to reside on someone else’s refrigerator! Who better to send them to than your folks who love your kiddos just as much as you do!
Talk about Their Grandparents Throughout the Day
When kids are really young, they don’t seem to understand that people’s lives carry on even when the children are not around. Let them know what’s new in their grandparents lives. Tell them stories of things your parents did while you were growing up. This will help kids have a more rounded idea of their grandparents, instead of just thinking they’re the birthday gift fairies.
Encourage Their Enjoyment of a Common Interest or Hobby
When my oldest found out that his great grandfather flew Bombers in WWII, he was amazed. He quickly became obsessed with all things airplanes and the two of them had things to talk about despite a ninety year age difference. It was a beauty thing! Figure out something your parents enjoy that your child might enjoy too and watch their relationship grow.
Skype or Other Technology
Grandparents love to Skype! Even when it’s total chaos and no one can hear each other, I’m amazed at how much our parents appreciate interacting with our boys on the internet. It’s free and easy. Really no excuse not to do it!
How do you help your children and your parents stay connected long distance? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!
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Julie is a frazzled mom of three tornadoes. As a dorky second-generation homeschooler, she writes about learning and play, natural living, special needs parenting and matters of the heart. She serves an astounding God that radically saved her.
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